In collaboration with GAC, NEST+ is an intelligent in-car pet seating system that explores how vehicle interiors can support non-verbal dog passengers through sensing-based communication.

As pets are increasingly considered family members, existing pet travel solutions mainly focus on physical restraint and containment, while lacking the ability to understand and respond to a pet’s condition during travel. NEST+ addresses this gap by integrating pet-state recognition, AI-driven decision-making, HMI communication, and adaptive cabin responses. The system identifies six journey-specific pet states, including Normal, Transition Stress, Motion Discomfort, Physical Instability, Separation Distress, and Exit Risk, and translates them into actionable driver feedback and comfort responses through vibration, airflow, audio, lighting, and window control.

A prototype was developed and evaluated through scenario-based user testing with human participants. Results showed that users could understand the system logic, valued automated support, and perceived potential to reduce driver distraction while improving pet travel experiences. This experience deepened our understanding of intelligent cabin systems, human–vehicle interaction, and how AI can create more inclusive and emotionally aware mobility experiences.

Academic Supervisors: Prof. Stephen J. Wang, Prof. Qiuyu Luca Lu
Industry Supervisor: Mr Stephen Chen
Industry Partner: GAC